Dinner With The Mafia. Armando Lazzari

that I wanted to give in your honor. However, I'm sure that my cousin, Carmine and my nephew, Ben will be more than happy to take my place,” said Joe.

      Carmine intervened resolutely before Ben had the chance to say anything, embracing him in a tight hug. “You can count on us! We'd be more than happy to host such an enchanting lady. Isn't that right, Ben?”

      He nodded, even if he still wasn't clear on everything that happened.

      Only after everyone except Esposito had left, could Joe take stock of the evening and enjoy his cigar, left to rest at the window ledge, in peace.

      “In the end, I'd say it went really well and I have to admit that Lola was good. I have no doubt that she'll find a way to make that idiot of my nephew fall for her. You made a damned good choice there.”

      Esposito never had a shadow of a doubt about that. “I'd say that you'll have a pleasant stay… in the clinic.”

      “Damn right. I think I'll stay for a couple of weeks. It's been a long time since I've had a decent vacation. And I can see you there, dying to ask. So here's your answer: no, you can't come with me.”

      Apartment on Broadway at the corner of 95^th Street; across the street from the Peter Norton Symphony Space

      Don Pasquale Lucchesi, who succeeded his father, Don Salvatore, in the management of the Family's affairs, stood sipping a seven year old brandy, staring out the window at the frenetic life out on the streets.

      His attractive secretary, the young Agustina Kyra, besides being an excellent associate, impeccable and reliable, was in the possession of a special “attribute” that any man would define as the finest buttocks to be admired by the human eye.

      Don Pasquale would resort to any strategy or excuse to get her to stand up from the chair so he could enjoy God's grace. She was completely aware of the game and generously gave him lustful moments in exchange for her high position in the company. For Agustina, the game was easy: whenever she wanted to get her boss's attention, all she had to do was swing her hips while walking over to the library and pick out any book.

      Occasionally, her boss was so engrossed in his thoughts, that he needed a little incentive. The most unfailing tactic was to pick out a book and let it fall, thumping to the ground, drawing his attention to her bottom, sensuously bending over to pick up the fallen book. “I wanted to know if it would be all right if I left a little early today. You know, today is…”